The studio

fficer?" he asked,

"Mind if I take

d only slightl

. Sparse decor. One large abstract piece hung abo

or-dust patterns. Disturbed only

I check d

ightened. "It's

ins

-

e Bas

hit him halfway down the stairs-oi

the canvas. Emily Harrow's

saw he

urke drew his weapon. "Hands

e easel, grabbing something from beneath the tab

shot missed, gra

, slashing, slici

sending brushes, rags, and bones-act

ing into the easel, splintering it. The portrait ri

-not in pain,

't wait. On